In this installment of my series on Gardner’sTheory of Multiple Intelligences, we’re going to look at what the logical-mathematical intelligence is and how to identify it.

Logic-smart learners are good at reasoning, recognizing patterns, analyzing and solving problems. They are conceptual thinkers who have a knack for precision, investigation and scientific processes. They enjoy exploring and discussing abstract ideas, and have an affinity for the logic of math and numbers.

This intelligence looks slightly different in young children than it does in teenagers and adults, because young children do not yet have the neurological capacity for abstract thought. In the 3-9 year old range, kids are concrete thinkers. So how might logic-smarts emerge during this time?

Here are some characteristics to look for. Does you child…

Draw or make patterns?

Try to figure out how things work?

Have good problem-solving skills?

Enjoy doing science experiments?

Have fun counting objects or doing math in their head?

Organize things into categories?

Enjoy playing strategy games?

If you answered yes to some of these questions, you’re seeing the logical-mathematical aspect of your child’s intelligence blossom!

*Parts of this post are taken from The Everything Parent’s Guide to Raising Mindful Children (Adams Media), a book I authored along with partner Jeremy Wardle. Order your copy here!

Stay tuned for the next post, where we’ll look at different activities you can do at home